Hamas has responded to President Donald Trump's peace proposal for Gaza, which includes a deadline of 6 p.m. ET on Sunday for acceptance. The group stated it would release all remaining hostages if Israel withdraws from Gaza and certain conditions are met. Further negotiations are necessary to finalize the deal, which Trump presented earlier this week during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. An agreement could potentially halt the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) ongoing operations in Gaza City, the largest urban area in the Gaza Strip.

In recent weeks, several Western nations have recognized Palestinian statehood while insisting that Hamas should not be part of any future government. Netanyahu has reiterated Israel's stance against the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Despite the announcement of Trump's ceasefire proposal, intense Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City continued overnight. Local reports indicated that one of the IDF's targets was Al-Azhar University, which was reportedly destroyed. The Gaza Government Media Office stated that the IDF conducted 93 airstrikes within a 24-hour period, resulting in the deaths of 70 Palestinians.

In a televised address, Netanyahu expressed a victorious sentiment, claiming Israel is "on the verge of a very great achievement." He expressed hope that in the coming days, he could announce the return of all hostages, both living and deceased. Netanyahu outlined a plan where Hamas would release all hostages while the IDF would maintain control over territories in Gaza.

Trump confirmed that Israel has agreed to the initial withdrawal line for the IDF as part of the peace proposal. He stated, "When Hamas confirms, the ceasefire will be IMMEDIATELY effective, the hostages and prisoner exchange will begin, and we will create the conditions for the next phase of withdrawal."

On Saturday, Trump warned Hamas to act swiftly regarding the hostages, stating, "Hamas must move quickly, or else all bets will be off." He emphasized that he would not tolerate delays or any situation that would allow Gaza to pose a threat again. The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the complexities of the ongoing conflict and potential peace negotiations.